Grad student quality of life at Harvard and Stanford?

[xbomber88]

Can anyone tell me about the quality of life as a grad student at Harvard and Stanford? I've been accepted to the PhD physics programs at both schools and have no idea which one to choose. Since both schools are excellent academically and I don't yet have a specific area I want to specialize in I think I'm mostly going to make my decision based on the quality of life at these schools. For example: do the grad students socialize and work together with each other or do they just do their own thing? Are the other grad students and professors there friendly? Do people there just spend all of their time in the lab or do they have a life outside of physics? Things like that. Anybody know anything about these schools?

 

[R.Mesri]

The quality of life as a grad student at Harvard and Stanford can vary depending on the individual and their particular program. Generally speaking, both schools have supportive and collaborative graduate student communities that are full of interesting people from all walks of life. Both universities also offer a variety of resources to support grad students in their academic and personal pursuits. The professors and other faculty members are often very engaged and invested in students’ success. In terms of work/life balance, both Harvard and Stanford have plenty of opportunities for extracurricular activities outside of the lab, including clubs and social gatherings, as well as plenty of places to explore in the surrounding areas. Whether you want to get out into nature or explore the city nightlife, there is something for everyone. Overall, both universities provide an excellent environment for graduate students to pursue their academic goals while also having a fulfilling life outside of the lab.